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Home/Cars/Toyota/Highlander/XU70 (2020-Present)/how to fix P0303 code in Toyota Highlander XU70 (2020-Present)

how to fix P0303 code in Toyota Highlander XU70 (2020-Present)

Toyota Highlander XU70 (2020-Present)

Severity: highDifficulty: mediumError Code: P03032-4 hours
4 min read
610 words

⚠️ Safety Warning

This issue requires immediate attention. If you are not experienced with automotive repairs, consult a professional mechanic. Working on critical systems can be dangerous.

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix P0303 cylinder 3 misfire in Toyota Highlander. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Error Code
P0303
Component
Engine
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems.
  • ⚠Allow the engine to cool before performing any repairs.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Rough idle or engine shaking
  • •Loss of power during acceleration
  • •Decreased fuel efficiency
  • •Engine stalling or hesitation

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan for error codes using an OBD-II scanner to confirm P0303 and check for additional codes.
  2. 2Inspect the spark plug in cylinder 3 for wear or damage.
  3. 3Check the ignition coil for proper operation using a multimeter.
  4. 4Inspect fuel injector functionality in cylinder 3 for clogs or leaks.
  5. 5Perform a compression test on cylinder 3 to check for internal engine issues.
  6. 6Examine the wiring and connections to the ignition coil and fuel injector for damage or corrosion.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and parts.
  • Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the engine is cool.
  • Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent electrical shorts.

2. Inspect and Replace Spark Plug

  • Sub-steps:
    • Remove the engine cover if applicable using a socket set.
    • Disconnect the ignition coil connector and remove the ignition coil from cylinder 3 using the socket set.
    • Unscrew and remove the spark plug from cylinder 3 using a spark plug socket.
    • Inspect the spark plug for signs of wear or damage; replace with a new spark plug if necessary (recommended gap: 0.043 inches).
    • Reinstall the spark plug and torque to the manufacturer’s specifications (typically around 13 lb-ft).
    • Reinstall the ignition coil and reconnect the connector.

3. Check and Replace Ignition Coil

  • Sub-steps:
    • If the spark plug is in good condition, test the ignition coil using a multimeter (check resistance according to specifications).
    • If the coil is faulty, remove it and replace it with a new ignition coil.
    • Reconnect the ignition coil connector securely.

4. Inspect and Clean Fuel Injector

  • Sub-steps:
    • Remove the fuel rail if necessary to access the fuel injector for cylinder 3.
    • Disconnect the fuel injector connector.
    • Remove the fuel injector from its seat and inspect it for clogs or damage.
    • Clean the injector using a fuel injector cleaner or replace with a new injector if needed.
    • Reinstall the fuel injector and reconnect the fuel rail and injector connector.

5. Perform Compression Test

  • Sub-steps:
    • Remove the spark plug from cylinder 3.
    • Insert the compression tester into the spark plug hole.
    • Crank the engine and record the compression readings.
    • If compression is low, further diagnosis may be needed for internal engine repairs.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • OBD-II scanner
  • Socket set
  • Torque wrench
  • Multimeter
  • Compression tester
  • Fuel injector cleaner

Parts Required

  • Spark plug (specific to vehicle)
  • Ignition coil (specific to vehicle)
  • Fuel injector (if faulty)

Additional Information

Error CodeP0303
Component

Engine

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

6 items

Parts

3 items

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